Hon. Muslim Folami, Commissioner for Local Government and Chieftaincy Affairs, (5the from left), Alhaji Tajudeen Quadri, Senior special Assistant to the Governor on Community Development (4th from left), Mr Padonu, Permanent Secretary, Ministry of Local Government and Chieftaincy Affairs (6th from left), Comrade Sesan Daini, Chairman, Igbogbo/Bayeku LCDA (7th from left) and other Ministry staff, Market chieftains in Ikorodu division and others during the Commissioner’s visit to Elepe market in Igbogbo/Bayeku LCDA

The Lagos State government continued with its campaign against illegal dumping of refuse and Street trading across markets in the State on Monday, February 26, 2018, as the Commissioner for Local Government and Community Affairs, Alhaji Muslim Folami, visited four major markets in Ikorodu division of the State.

Markets visited in the division are the ultra modern market in Ebute in Ikorodu West Local Council Development Area (LCDA), Ayangbure (Sabo) market in Ikorodu Local Government, Owode- Elepe market in Igbogbo/Bayeku Local Council Development Area and Obale market in Ijede Local council Development Area.

On Tuesday, February 27, 2018, which was the second day of the tour of markets in the division , the Commissioner’s entourage visited … market in Ikorodu North, Obada market in Imota and Ejinrin market in Ikosi-Ejinrin LCDAs.

According to the Commissioner, the government is committed to clean and safe market, utilization of market stalls by traders and preventing street trading across the state.

The visit were in the continuation of the sensitisation tour of all the major markets in the 20 local government areas and 37 local council development areas in the state..

“I’m here for three reasons – to speak with you on why we have to keep our markets clean and safer from epidemic, conveying the state government’s displeasure over street trading and to enjoin marketers to start making use of stalls provided for them”, he revaeled.

“The Lagos State Government is committed to making the state cleaner which was why our Cleaner Lagos Initiative (CLI) is being handled by a consortium which is recognised globally.

“We want you to cooperate with them by properly packing your refuse inside the waste nylon and carefully dispose them into waste bin for the waste managers to evacuate

“We don’t want refuse to be dumped on the roads, laybys, medians, streets and other public places. Those engaging in this acts are doing contrary to the Mega City status the government is doing everything to maintain

“We notice that despite the provision of modern markets, traders still sell on the streets.

“We appeal to the traders to occupy their stalls and avoid street trading which could cause gridlock and accident.

“Traders must also dispose their waste properly and evacuate refuse from markets, medians and walkways. Indiscriminate dumping of refuse is bad for the image of Lagos as a smart city.”

The Commissioner also used the occasion to appeal to the marketers to register and procure their Permanent Voters Card (PVC) towards the next general elections.

Visit to Ayangbure (Sabo) Market, Ikorodu LG:

The Chairman, Ikorodu LGA, Hon. Wasiu Adeshina, while speaking during the visit, stated that the council has embarked on further redevelopment of the Ayangbure market.

He added that the council, under his administration, has also been effectively evacuating refuse in the market and around the town to ensure a cleaner environment.

He warned developers engaged for the redevelopment of the market to desist from collecting levies and imposing arbitrary conditions on the marketers.

“I want to warn the developers in the market to stop imposing levies on the marketers. It is the duty of the council to do this. Because of this, we have set up a committee led by the former Council Chairman, Alhaji Junaid Owokodu, to investigate the imposition of illegal levies by some developers which is causing our people untoward hardship.”

Alhaja Taofikat Allison, the Iya-Oloja General of Ikorodu division, while also speaking said that Ikorodu need more marketers and also solicited for the assistance of the state government in the redevelopment of the traditional Ajina market.

Visit to Owode-Elepe Market, Igbogbo/Bayeku LCDA :

At Owode-Elepe market in Igbogbo/Bayeku Local Council Area, Comrade Sesan Daini, the council chairman, while speaking stated that the sensitization tour by the state is in continuation of All Progressives Congress’ (APC) government of inclusion.

“This is in continuation of our party’s government of inclusion. The Commissioner could have invited all the market leaders and council chairmen to Alausa secretariat and brief them on the governor’s directive, but instead, he decided to tour the major markets in the 57 LGs and LCDAs in the state” , Comrade Daini stated.

“As a council, we have been ensuring that not only that our markets are clean, but also monitoring the entire environment and ensuring that refuse are properly dumped and evacuated. We know that the governor is working towards taking Lagos State into a Smart City status; we have to be partner in progress.

“As part of our efforts in making the people feel our presence and the importance attached to the market associations, we have engaged the services of developers in redeveloping three markets in our council. The marketers were duly carried along in this process.

Comrade Daini listed Adeboruwa, Owode-Kaniyi and Sosanya markets as the three markets that would be redeveloped by the developers after the completion of the process.

Prince Jimoh Ogunmuyiwa, former Chairman, Igbogbo/Bayeku LCDA and now the Baba-Oloja General of the council, in his contribution, stated that most markets in the council were developed through self-help and requested for the state government’s assistance in the council’s plan for redevelopments.

The former chairman, who stated that they have not seen the Visionscape agents in their markets, also stated that they have been ensuring sanitation in the Elepe market and called on the government to assist in construction of fence round the market.

“Although, we have not seen the Visionscape agents in our market, but we have been ensuring that refuse are properly disposed and evacuated which is why you can see that our market is clean. The area we urgently need the government’s intervention is the construction of fence round this market to prevent people dumping refuse and committing other unlawful acts in the market after we might have gone home”, he appealed.

Visit to Obale Market, Ijede LCDA :

At Obale market in Ijede LCDA of Ikorodu division, the Chairman, Hon Fathiu Akesode, was supported by his Vice Chairman, traditional rulers, party, market and religious leaders and the representative of the religious bodies to welcome the Commissioner’s entourage.

Hon. Fathiu, in his speech, stated that Obale market is the only market serving Ijede community while adding that the council, in partnership with the market leaders, are ensuring that the market is kept clean at all time.

The chairman, who received great commendations from the public, also stated that his administration is keying into the Cleaner Lagos Initiative, zero tolerance to street trading and maximum usage of the available stalls campaign of the state government.

In his own reaction, the Baba-Oloja of Obale market requested for the government’s assistance in building a modern market for the people of Ijede .

“This is our traditional market which has been upgraded by the construction of stalls. Market business does not commence until evening time. Ijede need a more modern market and we want our government to help in this regard”, he appealed.

High Chief Aliu Musediq, the Regent/Olisa of Ijede, while speaking called the attention of the Commissioner to the dilapidated condition of the Alajede palace which he described as embarrasing and worrisome.

The traditional ruler called on the governor, Mr Akinwunmi Ambode, to assist the community in the reconstruction of the palace.

The first point of call on the second day of tour of the market in Ikorodu division was the Orija market in Ikorodu North LCDA .

Hon. Adeola Banjo, the Chairman of the council, while welcoming the Commissioner and his entourage, expressed difficulties being faced by the council in its efforts at assessing the number of shops in the plank market in the council and stoppage of street trading.

“Sir, one of the major difficulties we are facing and over which some people are seeing me as being difficult is the conspiracy at preventing my administration from knowing the number of stalls we have in the plank market”, he stated.

“As a council with control over markets, it is our duty to know the number of stalls in each of our markets for the purpose of planning. But we have been told that we cannot count the number of stalls in the plank market”, he alleged.

“These are the same people asking the council to do road, built toilets and provide water. How can we do all these without adequate knowledge of people and stalls? How can we do this when we cannot generate fund? ”

“I have also been having problems with our people because of our stance on street trading which is the policy of the state government. I had arrested many of our children being engaged in the act. Some of these children I have giving scholarship to start studying”, Hon. Banjo added.

Some market leaders and traders also contributed by making requests and observations .

They requested for the rehabilitation of Ikorodu-Shagamu road which they claimed is hampering sales as well as waste disposable nylon and bin and security in markets across the council .

Visit to Obada Market, Imota LCDA :

It was a carnival – like atmosphere when the Commissioner’s entourage visited Obada market in Imota as marketers, party members and residents used the occasion to praise and commend the Council Chairman, Hon. Wasiu Agoro who many have described as a ‘silent performer’.

Just like in the other markets visited, the Commissioner’s address was hinged on the campaign for cleaner market, stoppage of street trading and adequate usage of the market stalls.

Hon. Agoro, while welcoming the Commissioner and his entourage, stated that Imota market is ahead of other markets in the 57 LGs and LCDAs in Lagos State.

“Our markets without mincing words are ahead of other markets in the 57 LGs and LCDAs in Lagos State in terms of cleaningness and management”, he said boastfully.

“I make bold to say that there is no market in Lagos State that is as clean as Imota market which is why you can hardly find any dirt in our market where we are presently seated.

“Starting from next month, the council would start the rehabilitation of the this market by replacoing the roof, fencing and working on the floor”, Hon. Agoro revealed.

A major request by the market leaders in Imota was the quick completion of the Lagos State Commodities Market (Mile 12) that was moved to the council two years ago.

Ejinrin Market, Ikosi-Ejinrin LCDA :

Alhaji Tajudeen Quadri, representative of the Commissioner for LG and Chieftaincy Affairs (middle), Hon. Segun Olulade, Member of the Lagos State House of Assembly (2nd right), Oba Rafiu Ishola Balogun, the Elejinrin of Ejinrin, Hon Dare Odunlami, Vice Chairman, Ejinrin LCDA and Chief Akintola Muyiwa, the Balogun of Ejinrinduring the Commissioner’s tour

By the time the Commissioner’s entourage would moved to Ejinrin market in Ikosi-Ejinrin LCDA, the traders had already dispersed but within few minutes of the tour team’s arrival, the traditional ruler of Ejinrin, Oba Rafiu Ishoola Babatunde Balogun, the Elejinrin of Ejinrin, member of the Lagos State House of Assembly, Hon. Segun Olulade and the Vice Chairman of the council who also re presented the Chairman, Hon. Dare Odunlami, stormed the market to receive the delegation and their presence led to the re- mobilization of the traders and residents of the area .

The Lagos State Government’s team was led to Ejinrin by Alhaji Tajudeen Quadri, the Senior Special Assistant to the Governor on Community Development.

According to the number one Community Development Promoter in Lagos State, he stated that the State government is embarking on a three-prong campaign of cleaner Lagos, stoppage of street trading and adequate usage of available stalls in markets.

In their reactions to the Commissioner’s address, traders requested the government to provide portable water, toilet and electricity in the market. These, according to them, would enhance the return of those who have left the market.

Oba Balogun, a retired civil servant, while speaking during the visit, went historical by stating that Ejinrin market was the second sea port in Nigeria. He added that the market, which has now been abandoned, served the entire Southwest region of the country in the colonial and post colonial periods until it was abandoned.

“This market used to serve the entire Yorubaland during the colonial period and thereafter. It used to host Ollivant, Leventis and other foreign companies. Many of these companies used to have their stores here until it was abandoned after the exit of the white men.

“The port here at that time used to be the second sea port in Nigeria. The construction of the market stalls commenced in 1950 by the white men and completed in 1954. In this market, there were over 1000 stalls and it used to be beehive of activities.”

The royal father, who was appreciative of the governor’s visit to Ejinrin last December, also appealed to the residents to comply with the government’s directives.

“Since this market was abandoned after the exit of the white people, it is only this present administration under government Ambode that has shown interest in reviving it and bring back its lost glory”

“The governor visited Ejinrin last December and promised to ensure that his administration do projects that would bring people back into Ejinrin and also revive the market.

Hon. Segun Olulade, member of the Lagos State House of Assembly while also speaking, stated that the APC is practicing government of inclusion.

“Our party is practicing an inclusive government and that is why the State government is coming to our communities to carry people along in its decision making process”, Hon. Olulade stated.

“You should consider all your requests on toilet facilities and water done”, he assured.

“The governor has also assured Lagosians of uninterrupted power with the bill that was recently passed into law. Whenever the project takes off, Lagos will have the capacity to generate and distribute power to its residents.

“Ejinrin market used to be the commercial nerve centre of the Western region before it was abandoned but the governor has promised to revive the market”, said the lawmaker.

The first-ever Ikorodu Economic Summit (IES) has provided an opportunity for policy makers, captains of industry, scholars and others to brainstorm on roadmap for Ikorodu division’s sustainable developments.

The event, which took place at the Origin Zoo & Gardens on Thursday, February 22, 2018, and tagged, “Stabilizing the Local Economy”, was organized by the Advocacy for Community Economic Development (A-CED) in conjunction with Ikorodu-Oga Development Association (IKODASS).

Otunba Ganiyu Abiru , IKODASS Chairman , in his welcome address stated that the collaboration between IKODASS and A-CED was to address the seemingly slow pace of Ikorodu division’s economic growth.

“The event collaboratively came into being as a consequence of discussions between the executive members of Ikorodu-Oga Development Association (IKODASS) and members of an NGO organization, Advocacy for Community Economic Development (A-CED) over the seemingly slow pace of our economic growth in the division and wide scale unemployment which has brought about feelings of hopelessness and despair among our able bodied youths”, Otumba Abiru revealed.

“The economic scenario of our division calls for a serious review in order to stem the tide of decline we are gradually drifting into.

“This summit, therefore, would want to look at where we were, where we are really are and where we should be if our natural and human potentials are maximally utilized”, said the IKODASS Chairman.

Mrs Olayinka Oladunjoye, the Lagos State Commissioner for Commerce, Industry and Cooperatives, in her keynote address stated that the Ikorodu Economic Summit would encourage the development of local content and boost the economy of the State.

She added that the fast-changing economic space is such that clearly requires proper economic analysis and need to facilitate investments into key areas that would catalyze growth and development to enable the State to compete with other emerging economies in the world.

“The current economic reality in the country as a whole has placed responsibility on the Lagos State Government to encourage Local Government and Community Associations to harness their potentials with a view to having a dynamic and expanding economy, thereby, facilitating job creation and all its attendants’ consequences”, she said.

She stated that the summit would complement the efforts of the present administration in Lagos State in boosting and stabilizing the economy of various communities in the state through numerous initiatives, reforms, projects and programmes for the continued growth and development of the State’s economy.

Oladunjoye used the opportunity of the occasion to task Ikorodu indigenes to leverage on the high momentum with which the division is growing and invest in key sectors of the socio-economic architecture of the area to sustain the current growth and development in the division.

“You will all agree with me that Ikorodu has grown beyond a petty trading location to an emerging commercial and industrial hub that is being supported by enabling infrastructure by the State Government. I see no reason why indigenes of Ikorodu will find it difficult to invest here. You have the market, the population”.

“Apart from this, you also have the industrial facilities; you have the necessary social environment that typifies a metropolitan city, and most importantly, deployment of massive security apparatus by the State Government in the division. This will help to mitigate all forms of security challenges. So, the ball is in your court to grow Ikorodu division to an enviable investment haven” , the Commissioner stated.

She highlighted some infrastructural provisions by the State Government within the axis to include the ongoing construction of Owutu-Ishawo-Arepo Road to link Lagos-Ibadan Expressway, ongoing construction of Igbe-Ginti-Road up to Ijede Road Junction; construction of Government Chalet at the Lagoon front site in Ikorodu division, construction of a massive mall to be built in the division (Site already approved by the Governor).

All of these projects, according to her, are meant to upscale and align the division with cosmopolitan Lagos and consolidate on the prime position of Lagos State as the industrial and commercial nerve centre of the country and indeed the entire West Africa sub-region.

He called for searchlight to be beamed on Owutu, Ipakodo, Ibeshe, Offin, Bayeku, Ijede and Imota which are coastal areas for development.

His words, “Whereas many communities had preserved their coastlines and utilized it to boost the local economy, other communities had allowed hawkers to mine their endowment and cart away huge profits without recourse to the local economy.”

“This contribution is a clarion call to all communities in Ikorodu division to profit from there endowment, and through Advocacy for Community Economic Development, pay attention to the coastline.

“Ikorodu division should let the future bring forth another Victoria Island, Banana Island, Atlantic City and produce another Seattle in Washington State, USA, or Dubai in United Arab Emirate” , he said while challenging communities in Ikorodu division.

He stated that Ikorodu with vast coastline from Majidun to Egbin should be a thriving business in water transportation.

Proffering way forward for Ikorodu Economic Development, Dr Bawa-Allah called for the creation of Ikorodu Division Economic Council (IKODEC) with Ayangbure of Ikorodu as chairman and other Obas in the division as members.

Other proposed members of IKODEC are Chairman, Ikorodu-Oga Development Association (IKODASS), Chairman, Advocacy for Community Economic Development (A-CED) and an Executive Secretary.

Mr Timothy Okeowo, a lecturer in the department of Agricultural Extension and Management, Lagos State Polytechnic, Ikorodu, while presenting his paper titled, “Reinventing Ikorodu Division As Food Basket of Lagos State In stabilizing Local Economy”, identified suitable lands for agriculture, farm settlement schemes, livestock farm, fish farm, Waste to Wealth Organic conversion plant, High capacity rice processing mill and Lagos State Polytechnic as sources of strength for agricultural development in Ikorodu division .

He also identified poor market assurance, inadequate processing capacity, poor infrastructural development, loss of value of dignity of labour and inadequate education among others as weaknesses hampering agricultural development in the division.

Okeowo, thereafter, called for human capacity building, addressing the challenges of infrastructures, need for transformational leadership, government intervention, fixing agricultural value chain, access to intervention funds, revival of cultural value and creation of a conducive environment for private sector investments among others as strategies for the repositioning of agric business for economic stability in the division.

Prince Abiola Kosoko, the Chief Executive Officer, Origin Zoo and Gardens, in his paper on “Tourism As A Catalyst For Economic Prosperity In Ikorodu Division”, stated that tourism potential of the division has never been considered useful platform to drive the economy of the division.

According to him, “This has contributed to the extinction of those attractions that fall within the natural categories and a few that are man-made were destroyed for alternative economical gains that often resulted in abandoned projects with negative effects on the social development of the division.

“A painful one is the Majidun and Itowolo old bridges removed to an unknown destination.”

The first-ever Ikorodu Economic Summit (IES) provided an opportunity for the policy makers, captains of industry, scholars and others to brainstorm on roadmap to Ikorodu division’s sustainable developments.

The event which took place at Origin Zoo & Gardens on Thursday, February 22, 2018, and tagged, “Stabilizing the Local Economy” was organized by the Advocacy for Community Economic Development (A-CED) in conjunction with Ikorodu-Oga Development Association (IKODAS).

Otunba Ganiyu Abiru, Chairman, Ikorodu-Oga Development Association (IKODASS) in welcome address stated that collaboration between IKODASS and A-CED was to address the seemingly slow pace of Ikorodu division economic growth.

“The event collaboratively came into being as a consequence of discussions between the executive members of Ikorodu-Oga Development association (IKODASS) and members of an NGO organization, Advocacy for Community Economic Development (A-CED) over the seemingly slow pace of our economic growth in the division and wide scale unemployment which ahs brought about feelings of hopelessness and despair among our able bodied youths” Otumba Abiru revealed

“The economic scenario of our division calls for a serious review in order to stem the tide of decline we are gradually drifting into.

“This summit therefore would want to look at where we were, where we are really are and where we should be if our natural and human potentials are maximally utilized” said IKODASS Chairman

Mrs Olayinka Oladunjoye, the Commissioner for Commerce, Industry and cooperatives, in her keynote address stated that the Ikorodu Economic Summit will encourage the development of local content and boost the economy of the State.

She added that the fast-changing economic space is such that clearly requires proper economic analysis and need to facilitate investments into key areas that would catalyze growth and development to enable the State to compete with other emerging economies in the world.

“The current economic reality in the country as a whole has placed responsibility on the Lagos State Government to encourage Local Government and Community Associations to harness their potentials with a view to having a dynamic and expanding economy thereby facilitating job creation and all its attendants’ consequences”, she said.

She stated that the summit will complement the efforts of the present administration in Lagos State in boosting and stabilizing the economy of various communities in the state through numerous initiatives, reforms, projects and programmes for the continued growth and development of the state economy.

Oladunjoye used the opportunity of the occasion to task Ikorodu indigenes to leverage on the high momentum with which the Division is growing and invest in key sectors of the socio-economic architecture of the area to sustain the current growth and development in the Division.

“You will all agree with me that Ikorodu has grown beyond a petty trading location to an emerging commercial and industrial hub that is being supported by enabling infrastructure by the State Government. I see no reason why indigenes of Ikorodu will find it difficult to invest here. You have the market, the population”.

“Apart from this, you also have the industrial facilities; you have the necessary social environment that typifies a metropolitan city, and most importantly, deployment of massive security apparatus by the State Government in the division. This will help to mitigate all forms of security challenges. So the ball is in your court to grow the Ikorodu Division to an enviable investment haven.” The Commissioner stated.

She highlighted some infrastructural provisions by the State Government within the axis to include the ongoing construction of Owutu-Ishawo-Arepo Road to link Lagos-Ibadan Expressway, ongoing construction of Igbe-Ginti-Road up to Ijede Road Junction; construction of Government Chalet at the Lagoon front site in Ikorodu Division, construction of a massive mall to be built in Ikorodu Division (Site already approved by the Governor).

All of these projects, according to her, are meant to upscale and align the Ikorodu Division with cosmopolitan Lagos and consolidate on the prime position of Lagos State as the industrial and commercial nerve centre of the country and indeed the entire West Africa sub-region.

He called for searchlight to be beamed on Owutu, Ipakodo, Ibeshe, Offin, Bayeku, Ijede and Imota which are coastal areas for development

“whereas many communities had preserved their coastlines and utilized it to boost the local economy other communities had allowed hawkers to mine their endowment and cart away huge profits without recourse to the local economy”

“This contribution is a clarion call to all communities in Ikorodu division to profit from their endowment, and through Advocacy for Community Economic Development pay attention to the coastline.

“Ikorodu division should let the future bring forth another Victoria Island, Banana Island, Atlantic City and produce another Seattle in Washington State, USA, or Dubai in United Arab Emirate” he challenged communities in Ikorodu division

He stated that Ikorodu with vast coastline from Majidun to Egbin should be a thriving business in water transportation.

Proffering way forward for Ikorodu Economic Development, Dr Bawa-Allah called for the creation for the creation of Ikorodu Division economic Council (IKODEC) with Ayangbure of Ikorodu as chairman and other Obas in the division as members.

Other members proposed are Chairman, Ikorodu-Oga Development Association (IKODASS), Chairman, Advocacy for Community Economic Development (A_CED) and an Executive Secretary.

Mr Timothy Okeowo, a lecturer in the department of Agricultural Extension and Management, Lagos State Polytechnic, Ikorodu, In his own presentation at the summit titled, “Reinventing Ikorodu Division As Food Basket of Lagos State In stabilizing Local Economy” identified suitable lands for agriculture, farm settlement schemes, livestock farm, fish farm, Waste to Wealth Organic conversion plant, High capacity rice processing mill and Lagos State Polytechnic as sources of strength for agricultural development in Ikorodiu

Okeowo, thereafter, called for human capacity building, addressing the challenges of infrastructures, need for transformational leadership, government intervention, fixing agricultural value chain, access to intervention funds, revival of cultural value and creation of a conducive environment for private sector investments among others as strategies for the repositioning of agric-business for economic stability in the division.

Prince Abiola Kosoko, the Chief Executive Officer, Origin Zoo and Gardens in his paper on “Tourism As A Catalyst For economic Prosperity In Ikorodu Division” stated that tourism potential of the division as never been considered useful platform to drive the economy of the division.

According to him, “This has contributed to the extinction of those attractions that falls within the natural categories and a few that are man-made were destroyed for alternative economical gains that are often resulted into abandoned projects with negative effects on the social development of the division.

“A painful one is the Majidun and Itowolo old bridges removed to an unknown destination

States’ Houses of Assembly on Thursday deplored National Assembly’s rejection of the Bill seeking to adopt devolution of powers in the ongoing constitution alteration in the country.

The Conference of Speakers, therefore, urged the National Assembly to revisit the issue in the next constitution alteration, saying that it was the wish of the people at the grassroots.

Chairman of the conference, Mr Abdulmumin Kamba, stated the position of the speakers while transmitting the resolutions of Houses of Assembly on Constitution amendment to National Assembly leadership on Thursday in Abuja.

He said that 34 houses of assembly out of the 36 in the country went through the 29 Amendment Bills sent to them and concurred with the National Assembly on 15.

According to him, during our interactions with stakeholders at the grassroots on the proposed constitution amendments, they expressed their displeasure on the absence of devolution of powers.

Kamba added that the assemblies carried out their duties in accordance with the yearnings of the people.

“The process of amending the Constitution is more inclusive than exhaustive.

“Section 29 of the Constitution defines the role of the state houses of assembly in any alteration.

“In this forth alteration, just like in the previous ones, state legislators have not only acted expeditiously, given the importance of the exercise, but also discharged their constitutional duties in line with yearnings and aspirations of their constituents.

“The alteration has been challenging but worthwhile. We are not, however, under any illusion that it will be free of opposition given the experience in the 7th Assembly.

“We believe that every proposed amendment transmitted to the houses of assembly by the National Assembly for ratification reflects the yearnings and aspirations of Nigerians.

“The voting out of bill on devolution of powers was strongly condemned by people at the grassroots.

“Therefore, on behalf of the constituents, we want to plead that the bill on the devolution of power be reconsidered and form part of the next proposed amendments to the Constitution,’’ Kamba said.

In his remarks, the Speaker, House of Representatives, Mr Yakubu Dogara, said that there would not be solid democracy without an independent legislature.

He commended the state assemblies for approving autonomy for themselves, but flayed them for denying the local governments same autonomy.

The speaker said all that hope was not lost as they could still decide to give their approval when the National Assembly would present it again in the future.

“I must commend you for deciding that the legislature in states should be independent. However, this is not an expression of the opinion of the National Assembly.

“I want to appropriate this as my personal opinion.

“I can say that I am disappointed because I thought that the courage demonstrated by these highly skilled legislators, some of whom are seated before us, would have delivered the long-awaited local government autonomy.

“But unfortunately, maybe our courage didn’t go that far.

“But you see, courage isn’t really the absence of fear, but it is acting in spite of your fears and if it was not because of men and women of courage.

“I tell you that the democracy itself that we experience now wouldn’t have been possible.

“When William Wilberforce said slaves must be free, he belonged to the party, majority of whom, were slave owners and on account of that, a revolution started,” he added.

Dogara added that “while most of the measures the National Assembly is seeking to introduce may not be popular, if they stand by them, the kind of future that will come from it will only ensure the deepening of democracy and the progress of Nigeria.

“Just as the financial independence for state legislatures failed the other time, maybe in the next exercise, because our state legislatures are now independent, they will be able to extend this same independence to local governments.

“We all know the benefits of the independence of the third tier,’’ Dogara said.

In his remarks, the President of the Senate, Dr Bukola Saraki, said that devolution of powers clause demanded by Nigerians would surely be attended to by the National Assembly as soon as possible.

Saraki urged the State Houses of Assembly to also ensure the passage of constitutional amendment on local government autonomy when sent to them again.

He said, “the foundation of our Constitution rests on its ability to strengthen our unity, deepen democracy, engender good governance, and also the enforcement and protection of our peoples’ rights as they go about seeking a better life for themselves.

“These are the crux of the proposed alterations to the Constitution which the 8th National Assembly in accordance with the 1999 Constitution, sent to the State Assemblies for their approval.

“The conclusion of this process today is another great testament to the growing stature of our democratic practice and the maturity that all of you in this room and those outside have shown.

“I am proud of the value and the patriotism you have exhibited to get us this far. I commend your hard work and your forthrightness.

“The process of amending the Constitution is a solemn process that is not flimsily embarked upon. `

“These current amendments which have passed through the last constitutional hurdle will help strengthen the bonds of our unity and our institutions to provide good governance.

“We remain resolved to continue to take on the hard national issues that hold us down with a view to using all legislative and constitutional measures to resolve them for the welfare and security of our people.

“It is our expectations that with the success of the current exercise and the lessons learned, we are better equipped to take on more constitutional proposals.

“This will give our people greater sense of belonging, safety and oneness including the issues of devolution of powers,’’ Saraki said

Some of the suspected cultists before their arraignment at the Ogudu Magistrate Court by the Lagos State Government on Thursday, March 1, 2018.

The Lagos State Government on Thursday arraigned 70 suspected cultists before Chief Magistrate Olufunke Sule-Amzat of the Ogudu Magistrate Court for conspiracy to commit felony and for holding a meeting of an unlawful society suspected to be Aiye Confraternity.

The 70 suspected cultists, with ages ranging between 19 and 40 years, were arraigned on a three-count charge by the Directorate of Public Prosecution in the State Ministry of Justice.

They were earlier arrested by officers of the State Police command who acted promptly on a tipoff given by members of the public on 23rd February, 2018 at about 2am, where the suspected cultists at Elemoro area of Ajah were caught holding a meeting of the unlawful society of Aiye confraternity.

In count one, the defendants were accused of conspiring to commit felony contrary to and punishable under Section 411 of the Criminal Law, Cap CH. C17 Vol.3, Laws of Lagos State, 2015.

In count two, the defendants were alleged to belong to an unlawful society suspected to be AIYE confraternity, an offence contrary to Section 42(a) and punishable under Section 42 (b) of the Criminal Law, Cap. CH.17 Vol.3, Laws of Lagos State, 2015, while in count three, they were said to have attended the meeting of the said unlawful group, contrary to the laws of the State.

After the charges were read to them, the 70 defendants pleaded not guilty, while their lawyer urged the court to grant his clients bail on the ground that the offence for which they were charged are bailable.

In response, the prosecution team led by Mr. Yakub Oshoala, a Director from the Directorate of Public Prosecution (DPP), Lagos State Ministry of Justice, did not oppose the bail application, but urged the court to remand the defendants in prison custody pending the satisfaction of their bail conditions.

In her ruling, Chief Magistrate Sule Amzat granted bail to the defendants in the sum of N100,000 each and two sureties in like sum.

The sureties, according to the Magistrate, must be responsible residents, in gainful employment with evidence of paying tax for three years in Lagos State and one of which must be a blood relation of each of the defendants.

The matter was adjourned for trial on dates starting from 11th April 2018.

Speaking on the development, the Attorney General and Commissioner for Justice, Mr Adeniji Kazeem, said the State Government would not relent until cultism and other social vices are stamped out in the State.

Kazeem said the State Government, through his office, had commenced partnership with the State Police Command in line with the directive of the State Governor, Mr. Akinwunmi Ambode, to stamp out all forms of cultism and crime in Lagos State, especially in the Ajah area of the State.

“To this end, the arraignment of the 70 suspects will serve as a deterrent to those who may want to engage in the act of cultism,” he said.

-Pledges confidentiality of data received from foreign countries on Nigerians’ overseas assets, income

The Federal Government is ready to prosecute, name and shame tax evaders that fail to utilise the tax amnesty programme, the Voluntary Assets and Income Declaration Scheme (VAIDS), to regularise their tax profiles, the Honourable Minister of Finance, Mrs. Kemi Adeosun, declared on Thursday.

She also disclosed that the Federal Government would strictly adhere to the confidentiality of the Automatic Exchange of Financial Account Information in Tax Matters, in line with the guidelines of the Organisation for Economic Cooperation and Development (OECD).

The Minister made this known at the VAIDS Stakeholders Symposium held at the Umaru Shehu Yar’Adua Centre, Murtala Square, in Kaduna State.

The sensitisation programme was attended by the Executive Governor of the State, Mallam Nasir el-Rufai; Accountant General of the Federation, Alhaji Idris Ahmed; Executive Chairman of the Federal Inland Revenue Service, Mr. Babatunde Fowler; members of the State Executive Council, captains of industries and business owners.

Adeosun stated that the Federal Government had the political will to prosecute tax evaders once the tax amnesty programme was over by March 31, 2018.

She said, “The Federal Government has the political will and data to go after tax evaders who fail to take advantage of the tax amnesty programme. Many Nigerians cannot explain their lifestyles or match their lifestyles, assets and income with their tax payment.

“We will close VAIDS at the expiration of the programme on March 31, 2018. And once the programme is closed, we will name and shame and also prosecute tax evaders.”

On data sharing with foreign countries, the Minister noted that the information sourced would strictly be used for tax purposes.

“The guideline requires that the automatic exchange of financial account information must be specifically designed with residence jurisdictions’ tax compliance in mind rather than be a by-product of domestic reporting for it to be effective,” she said.

She added that the automatic exchange of information had become necessary to combat tax evasion and protect the integrity of tax systems.

The VAIDS, according to her, has been strengthened by the data on financial accounts, property and trusts shared by other countries.

She advised offshore asset owners to utilise the VAIDS window to regularise their taxes before the end of the amnesty programme.

“The offshore tax shelter system is basically over. Those who have hidden money overseas are being exposed and whilst Nigerians can legally keep their money anywhere in the world, they must first pay any taxes due to the Nigerian Government so that we can fund the needs of the masses and create jobs and wealth for our people,” she urged.

The Kaduna State Governor, who disclosed that he declared his assets in 2017, commended the collaboration between the Federal and State Governments on tax.

He pledged to provide land ownership data to tax authorities at the Federal and State level, as part of measures to bring more income earners and asset owners into the tax net.

The Governor assured that the revenue from taxes would be judiciously used in improving the lives of residents of the State through investment in infrastructure, primary health an education.

The FIRS Executive Chairman reinforced the need for Nigerians to join hands with the Federal and State Governments to improve the standard of living through compliance with tax payment.

The Lagos and Kano State Governments on Thursday signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) for economic partnership and to jointly explore investment opportunities aimed at creating jobs and facilitating growth and development.

The MoU, which was signed by Governors Akinwunmi Ambode and Abdullahi Umar Ganduje of Lagos and Kano States respectively, at the closing ceremony of the inaugural Lagos-Kano Economic and Investment Summit held at the Jubilee Chalets, Epe, seeks to create a common platform for exploring, expanding and developing areas of economic development and Investment.

According to the MoU, the two States agreed to expand the current level of economic and investment cooperation between them especially in key areas of Governance, Security, Internally Generated Revenue (IGR), Agricultural Value Chain, Tourism, Education, Information and Communication Technology (ICT) and Skills Development.

Other areas include Commerce with specific focus on ease of doing business and Infrastructure in Power, Transportation and Urban Waste Management.

The objectives of the MoU, among others, are to establish a formal and flexible framework between the two States to expand trade and investment cooperation, foster scientific and technological collaboration for business development in emerging key sectors, strengthen communication, enhance trust, boost economic development and create jobs.

Under the agreement, the two States have also set up a Technical Working Group to oversee the implementation of the objectives of the MoU.

In her closing remarks, Lagos State Deputy Governor, Dr Idiat Adebule, said the signing of the MoU by Governor Ambode and Governor Ganduje was a clear testament of the commitment of both States to collaborate in the overall best interest of the people.

She said the two Governors, by the development, “are telling the entire world that collaboration, cooperation, partnership can always work to bring about economic sufficiency in our States and off course the entire nation.”

While describing the summit as historic and successful, Adebule said the programme witnessed presentations from experts, erudite minds, scholars from both public and organised private sector with numerous positions expressed and outlined .

She said: “In this process, our minds have been availed with torrents of ideas, information, statistics, interpretation and above all vision and collaboration leading to economic sufficiency.

“I am convinced that the most valuable outcome of this engagement is the fact that we have Governors who have vision and have the opportunity of sharing this vision. Today, we are not just sharing the vision but providing an enabling environment for this vision to be actualized.

“Today, we have the political will; today, the political will has been demonstrated and it signifies the fact that we are ready for business. Lagos and Kano mean business and we are ready for business,” the Deputy Governor said.

The Lagos State Government has released a calendar of over 70 state-sponsored and endorsed arts and culture programmes slated for the rest of this year in its bid to garner visibility for tourism-oriented art programmes..

The novel exercise, according to a release signed by the State’s Commissioner for Tourism, Arts and Culture, Mr. Steve Ayorinde, is designed to frontload public and privately driven arts, culture and entertainment events that will have positive impact on tourism and the image of Lagos as an arts-friendly state. “This initiative is in fulfilment of the State Government’s promise to announce a yearly calendar of events to guide programming, tourists and visitors’ decisions” he stated.

According to Ayorinde, the Governor of Lagos State, His Excellency, Mr. Akinwunmi Ambode, kick-started the year with his attendance at Ali Baba’s January 1st Comedy concert at Eko Hotel. Other arts and culture events held in January and February so far and included in the calendar are Angel and Muse, an art exhibition by a Lagos-trained world renowned artist; Eebi; a month-long Indigenous Cultural Festival in Epe; Wazobia FM Carnival as well as the Lagos City Marathon amongst others.

The idea of creating a calendar of events for state-sponsored and state-endorsed programmes, is to make event planning, tour bookings and business decisions easier for tour operators and the general public.

The calendar is part of the state’s innovative intervention to project arts, entertainment and leisure benefits inherent in Lagos, which makes the state attractive to domestic tourists; business travellers and stop-over passers-by.

The commissioner said, “the state is forging ahead in expanding the consumption of its tourism products by improving access to tourism information and creating an events guide for the media and tour bloggers”.

Although not exhaustive, the calendar contains most of the well-known indigenous cultural festivals across the state, entertainment events; concerts; visual and performing arts as well as fashion and culinary events.

The state is expected to leverage on its continous infrastructural development, regeneration and creation of iconic minuments snd attractions for entertainment, arts and culture enthusiasts to boost economic activities and expand opportunities for job creation during the various events slated on the calendar.

“The administration of Governor Ambode believes that the quantum of cash transactions across the tourism and entertainment value-chain, as tracked in December 2017 when about 50billion was spent on entertainment and leisure alone, is a testimony to the huge economic gain that exists in promoting tourism in Lagos State.This and other economic factors make Lagos one of the most vibrant and culturally significant cities in Africa with potentials to make enormous impact in driving in-bound tourists from across the globe.

Major events listed in the calendar include Gidi Fest, Lagos Water Regatta and Fanti Carnival around the Easter Period; the International Jazz Day celebration on April 30 which will be dedicated to the South-African Jazz legend, Huge Masekela; the Lagos Comedy Festival (incorporating Lagos Laughs on World Laughter Day) on May 6 and the Eko Art Expo in the last weekend in May.

June will be rich with the first ever Lagos Golf Funfair and the Lagos Cinefest, which is designed to take cinema-going experience to all the five divisions of the state.

The Lagos Festival of Plays is a major highlight in the third quarter of the year; so is the Lagos Fishing Festival (Oshoroko) in Ibeju-Lekki; Akwaaba Travel Market and Faaji Agba – a special concert for the elderly to mark World Elders Day.

October to December will be the most intense period on the calendar with Olokun Festival; MUSON Festival; AFRIMA, AFRIFF; Kayo-Kayo Festival in Epe; the Lagos Luxury Summit/Fair; Felabration which will be used to celebrate Deal’s 80th birthday posthumously; the Lagos Books & Arts Festival (LABAF) which will be used to welcome Lagos into Africa’s Creative Cities club as well as the phenomenally popular One Lagos Fiesta which will hold between December 24 and 31st across the five divisions of the state in its forth unbroken year.

“The State is grateful to corporate sponsors that will make many of these events happen” Ayorinde says; adding that “our aim is to use the calendar and other strategic initiatives to enrich the entertainment and creative economy as an integral component of tourism promotion.”

Nigeria’s Vice President, Professor Yemi Osinbajo on Wednesday said at least $2billion would be required to revive the Lagos-Kano Rail Line as part of efforts to boost local and international trade along the Northern and Southern zones.

Osinbajo, who spoke at the opening of the inaugural edition of the Lagos-Kano Economic and Investment Summit held at the Jubilee Chalets in Epe, Lagos, said the Federal Government in partnership with a private firm, General Electric (GE) is already proposing to invest in the project to enhance the movement of cargo from Apapa ports to Kano via the rail line.

Commending the Lagos and Kano State Governors for creating a platform to collaborate for economic growth, Osinbajo expressed optimism that such initiatives would open up the investment opportunities that abound in both States to would-be investors both locally and internationally.

“I believe that Lagos and Kano States have by this collaboration underscored the cornerstone of the Federal Government’s economic recovery and growth plan, namely the leveraging of synergies among States and between government and the private sector.

“The strategic role of the federal government is of course to create an enabling environment for commerce beginning with the provision of infrastructure.

“For us, what this meant especially in the context of Lagos and Kano collaboration is the refurbishing of the narrow gauge Lagos to Kano Rail with a concession to General Electric who are proposing to invest almost $2billion to ensure that the rail route is effective for movement of cargo from Apapa port to Kano.

“Similarly, we are investing in the Lagos to Kano standard gauge line, the Lagos Ibadan portion of that is expected to be ready by the end of this year. Also, we have budgeted N80billion for the development of special economic zones in the six geo-political zones of the country,” Osinbajo said.

While reeling out plans by the Federal Government on power, the Vice President said arrangements have been firmed up to establish independent power projects to specifically service printers in Somolu area and traders in Sura Market.

He said the Federal Government would keep a close tap on the decisions reached at the Summit and would use it direct its engagement with State Governments going forward.

“Let me again commend Governors Ganduje and Ambode for this Summit. I want to commend Governor Ganduje for making the long journey to Lagos. I must also say that Governor Ambode deserves special mention for his foresightedness in establishing this collaboration, working with Governor Atiku Bagudu of Kebbi on the famous LAKE Rice and even leasing land from Ogun State to grow rice which I think is another act of collaboration,” Osinbajo said.

In his address, State Governor, Mr. Akinwunmi Ambode said the decision of the State Government to join the Oodua Investment Group triggered what has evolved over the last two years to become a signpost for effective partnerships between Lagos and other States.

He said with the current economic challenges facing the nation, there was no better time for States to begin to look beyond an oil driven economy and take advantage of their comparative advantages to engender economic growth.

“We urge other States and Regions to begin to leverage on their respective areas of comparative advantage by establishing partnerships towards establishing an inter-state or inter-regional commodity value chain.

“The idea of an intra and inter-regional trade and cooperation is not new to Lagos State. Over the past years, our State has collaborated with Kebbi and other states from within the western region to drive economic growth and development,” Governor Ambode said.

He said the immediate aim of the strategic partnership with Kano is to produce about 80 per cent of Nigeria’s agro-allied inputs such as wheat, groundnut, onions, maize, millet, sorghum, sugar cane and beef, adding that a Memorandum of Understanding would be signed by both States at the end of the Summit to demonstrate commitment to the sustainability of the partnership.

Also speaking, Governor Abdullahi Ganduje said his administration entered into the partnership with Lagos with a strong belief that it would create a veritable platform to drive home grown investments in the face of volatile global oil prices.

“We need to redefine our investment climate and find alternative sources of financing critical sectors and projects as well as improve public service delivery,” he said.

He said the State was looking towards effective partnership in Infrastructure, Agricultural Value Chain, Solid Minerals, ICT, Commence and Industry, medium and Small Scale Enterprises, Tourism, Governance and Institutions.

On his part, president of Dangote Group, Alhaji Aliko Dangote commended the partnership between both States, just as he said that Lagos has clearly demonstrated its readiness for serious investments.

“Lagos is more than ready for business. Our refinery, petrochemical, fertilizer and gas projects will generate N8trillion per annum for Nigeria when fully on stream.” he said

The three time winner of Bolowotan Memorial Gold Cup, A.A.C.C Football Club of Ikorodu, has emerged has one of the four teams which have qualified for the semi final matches of the 10th edition of the tournament currently going on at the Police Barracks Playing Ground, along Igbogbo Road, Ikorodu.

Other teams are Excel FC, Makbet FC and Oga Boyz FC.

A.A.C.C FC had won the tournament consecutively in 2012, 2013 and 2014 and also made it into the semi final stages of the 2015 and 2016 editions .

Excel FC defeated Current FC 7 -6 via penalty shootouts in the first quarter final match played on February 2, 2018, while Ketu Grassroots FC lost 2 – 3 to Makbet FC on February 16.

A.A.C.C FC had to settle for a lone goal victory over Victory FC in the third quarter final match with Samuel James scoring the lone goal.

In the fourth quarter final match, Boyz FC were clinical in front of goals as they whipped Eleniyan FC 3 – 0.

Shamsideen Sadiq (12), Apanisile Wale (16) and Simon Christian (25) scored the goals for the Oga Boyz FC in the 10th, 18th and 52nd minutes of the match.

Meanwhile, in the semi final pairings,Excel FC would play against Makbet FC while Oga Boyz FC would trade tackles with A.A.C.C FC in the second semi final match which has been tagged by analysts as a star match.

A total of 54 matches have so far been played in the tournament which kicked off with 28 teams.

Young Ubani Wisdom, a secondary school student who plays for A.A.C.C FC, is the leading goal scorer with six goals in five matches.

The date for the two semi final matches is yet to be decided by the organizers.

Meanwhile, the sponsor and the organizers of the tournament have promised to make both the semi final and final matches exciting for the spectators.

Hon. Babajimi Benson presenting ‘Apo-Anu’ (bag of mercy) to beneficiaries during the 18th edition of iCare monthly distribution of packed food items and beverages to residents in Ikorodu Federal Constituency

Hon. Babajimi Benson, member, representing Ikorodu Federal Constituency in the Federal House of Representatives at the National Assembly in Abuja, through his operational organization, iCare foundation, continued his campaign against hunger with the distribution of the monthly ‘Apo-Anu’ (Bag of Mercy) to another 500 residents in Ikorodu division.

This month edition, which was held on Saturday, February 24, 2018, at the Babajimi Benson Constituency Office in Ikorodu, was the 18th consecutive edition of the monthly distribution of packed food items and beverages to residents in the division.

Beneficiaries of this month were also presented additional package consisting of indomie, milk, spaghetti among other items by all the elected and appointed political office holders in the six Local Government and Local Council Development Areas in Ikorodu division.

Hon. Benson, while speaking at the event, revealed that he learnt the act of giving to the needy from his father and others that have really impacted on him.

“The act of giving and sacrifice is something that is inherent in our family. My father trained us to always give. Anytime I go out with him, he would not stop giving to those in need until he empty his pocket. It is from him that I learnt that you should always give to people”, he revealed.

“Late Otunba Theophilus Benson, former Minister of Information, was another person I Iearned from. He was very passionate about giving to others and also, my leader and mentor, Asiwaju Bola Tinubu. These are the people that I learned from that it’s always good to give.”

He enjoined beneficiaries and other members of the public to get their Permanent Voters Card (PVC) and also charged them to vote massively for APC in the coming elections. He also promised empowerment for the registered electorate.

“It is time we improve on about 1.5million votes we recorded in the last poll in Lagos State. We have to attain at least 5millon votes in the coming elections. It is possible only if we can ensure that we all register and get our PVC.

“After the closing date for PVC registration, we are going to do empowerment for our party chairmen, party members and market associations among others and only those that registered and have proof with PVC are going to benefit”, he promised.

Mayor Deen Sanwoola, the Director-General, iCare Foundation, in his own speech thanked the party and beneficiaries for their prayers and supports and assured them that iCare Foundation would continue to meet their needs at all time.

He also appreciated all the elected and political appointees in Ikorodu division for partnering with iCare in empowering the constituents.

Mrs Jumoke Benson, wife of the lawmaker, also in her address appreciated the party and the general residents for supporting her husband.

Comments, Endorsements For Hon. Benson

Hon. Adebimpe Akinsola, former Special Adviser on Tourism & Housing

“We should all be praying for Hon. Benson that God should continue to increase his capacity to do more for the people. If you truly love him and want him to be re-elected to continue his good deeds, you should go out there to register and get your PVC. That is the only way you can pay his good work back. We all want him back as our representative because he has been catering and caring for the people.”

Princess Adenrele Ogunsanya, former Secretary to the Lagos State Government

“The House of Representatives is not the peak for Hon. Benson because he has been representing us very well in the House.He is a trusted and tested hand.”

Hon. Fathiu, Chairman, Ijede local Council Development Area

“Hon. Benson is a special breed who is well loved by all. It is a good thing to feed many people that are in need. It is an act that God is always pleased with. He is doing all these as pay back to the people that gave him their mandate. We have all endorsed him to go back to the House of Representatives to continue to represent us.”

“He has been a true representative of our party and people generally. All the six APC Chairmen in Ikorodu division have endorsed him to continue to represent us in Abuja. We believe in him.”

Chief Dele Olowu, Chieftain of APC In Ikorodu

“I thank Mrs Benson for always allowing his husband to cater and care for the people. This is the third time that I will be attending iCare Foodbank programme. His return to the House of Representatives is settled. He can continue to go to the House for as many times as possible until we ask him to stop for a bigger assignment. I have benefitted from him like many other people.”

“We have seen what Hon. Benson has been able to do in 3 years compare to the performances of those that had been in the same position before him. He will continue to represent us in the House of Representatives until we tell him to move up to another position. I thank Ikorodu division for choosing him as our representative.”

Mrs Otayomi, Woman Leader, APC, Igbogbo/Bayeku LGA

“Hon. Benson is an outstanding representative. He has been doing what those that we had sent there before him were unable to achieve. He has impacted positively in many areas including education, health, road, empowerment among others. Anybody competing with him is wasting his time because we have all endorsed his return.”

“He has been a responsible and responsive representative. When we discovered that there was lopsidedness in allocation of benefits, I called him on behalf of the all ward women leader in the division and he quickly made adjustment and since then, he has been catering adequately for us. The entire ward women leaders have endorsed him for a second term.”